The vibrant spectacle of a pow wow is a celebration of Native American culture, a tapestry woven with the threads of music, dance, regalia, and community. Central to the integrity and fairness of these gatherings are the pow wow judges. These individuals, entrusted with the crucial task of evaluating performances and selecting winners, play a vital role in upholding the traditions and standards of the pow wow. Their decisions resonate throughout the arena, influencing not only the outcome of competitions but also the overall atmosphere and spirit of the event. Understanding the rules and responsibilities that guide pow wow judges is essential for appreciating the complexities and nuances of this significant cultural event.
The selection process for pow wow judges is carefully considered to ensure impartiality and expertise. Typically, the Pow Wow Committee, the governing body responsible for organizing the event, takes the lead in identifying and appointing the head judges. These head judges, possessing a deep understanding of the various dance styles and songs featured in the pow wow, often have the authority to recommend additional judges specializing in singing and dancing.
The head judges then choose other judges, usually five, from the knowledgeable spectators, dancers or singers participating in the pow wow. This method allows for the inclusion of diverse perspectives and ensures that the judging panel reflects the collective wisdom of the pow wow community.
Qualities and qualifications for pow wow judges are stringent, demanding a profound understanding of Native American culture and traditions. Each judge, ideally, should possess firsthand experience as either a singer or a dancer, having actively participated in pow wows and demonstrated a commitment to the art forms being judged. Furthermore, a comprehensive understanding of the specific rules and regulations governing the contests is paramount. This knowledge ensures consistency and fairness in the evaluation process, preventing biases and upholding the integrity of the competition.
Within the judging structure, specific roles and responsibilities are assigned to ensure smooth operation. The Head Dancing Judge, often referred to as the Arena Director, assumes a leadership position, overseeing the organization of the Grand Entry, the ceremonial procession that marks the beginning of the pow wow. This individual also plays a critical role in selecting different judges for each contest session, preventing fatigue and ensuring fresh perspectives. Furthermore, the Arena Director serves as the final arbiter in resolving disputes that may arise concerning judging or scoring, maintaining order and fairness within the arena.
Similarly, the Head Singing Judge bears the responsibility of selecting different judges for each singing contest session. This rotation of judges helps to mitigate potential biases and ensures that each performance receives a fair and impartial evaluation. The Head Singing Judge also plays a crucial role in settling any disputes that may arise regarding the scoring of singing performances, ensuring that the results accurately reflect the quality and artistry of the competing singing groups.
As each dancer enters the arena, the judges meticulously observe and evaluate their performance based on a range of criteria. These criteria often include:
- Timing with the Drum: This is perhaps the most fundamental aspect of judging dance performances. Dancers must synchronize their movements precisely with the rhythm and tempo of the drum, demonstrating a deep connection to the music and a mastery of the dance style.
- Regalia: The dancer’s regalia, the traditional clothing and adornments worn during the performance, is also carefully scrutinized. Judges assess the authenticity, craftsmanship, and overall presentation of the regalia, considering its adherence to traditional designs and the dancer’s personal expression.
- Grace and Style: The dancer’s grace, fluidity, and overall style are important factors in the judging process. Judges look for dancers who move with elegance, precision, and a sense of personal artistry, demonstrating a deep understanding of the dance form.
- Storytelling: Many pow wow dances tell stories, either through symbolic movements or through the overall narrative conveyed by the performance. Judges may consider the dancer’s ability to effectively communicate the story through their movements and expressions.
The importance of the pow wow judges cannot be overstated. They are the arbiters of excellence, the guardians of tradition, and the gatekeepers of cultural integrity. Their decisions shape the outcome of the contests and influence the overall perception of the pow wow. To ensure a fair and transparent process, judges should ideally be selected well in advance of the event, allowing ample time for them to be briefed on their responsibilities and the specific criteria they will be using to evaluate performances.
While the fundamental principles of judging remain consistent across different pow wows, the specific methods and scoring systems may vary. Two examples of judging and scoring methods are:
Chief White Eagle and Pawnee’s Method:
Chief White Eagle and his wife, Pawnee, provided insight into judging and scoring in their booklet titled, My Pow Wow Manual. They set a range of criteria to look for when judging.
United Tribes Technical College Pow Wow Method:
The United Tribes Education and Technical Center Pow Wow in Bismarck, North Dakota, employs a six-point spread system designed to minimize the likelihood of ties. In categories with four winners (e.g., Men’s Fancy, Men’s Traditional, Women’s Fancy, Women’s Traditional), five judges are utilized, assigning points of 21, 15, 9, and 3 to the top four performers, respectively. Categories with five winners necessitate the use of six judges, who award points of 27, 21, 15, 9, and 3 to the top five dancers.
In this system, dancers are evaluated based on four key criteria: (1) timing with the drum, (2) outfit, (3) sportsmanship, and (4) the requirement that both feet must be on the ground upon completion of the song and the final beat of the drum.
Following each judging session, the judges record their scores on individual score sheets, indicating their placements for each dancer. The Head Dancing Judge collects these score sheets and submits them to the scorekeeper, who then transfers the scores into an official scorekeeping book.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the score book is made available for review by dancers, singing groups, and spectators alike after the conclusion of the dancing and singing contests on Sunday night. However, access to the score book is restricted during the competitions themselves, ensuring that judges are not influenced by prior scores or opinions. Dancers or singing groups who have questions about their final scores are entitled to request a copy of the judges’ original score sheets for further clarification.
For spectators attending a pow wow, familiarizing themselves with the specific scoring and judging system being utilized can significantly enhance their appreciation and enjoyment of the event. Understanding the criteria and procedures by which dancers and singers are evaluated can provide valuable insights into the intricacies of the performances and the overall cultural significance of the pow wow.
In conclusion, the rules and responsibilities governing pow wow judges are essential to maintaining the integrity and authenticity of these vibrant cultural celebrations. By adhering to these guidelines, judges ensure that the competitions are fair, transparent, and respectful of the traditions and values of Native American culture. Their dedication and expertise contribute to the overall success of the pow wow, preserving its legacy for generations to come.